Since many FIRM’s across the country are old, FEMA has been engaged in a nationwide Map Modernization process in updating the floodplain maps in Pierce County. However, FEMA has yet to adopt new maps.

Pierce County is working toward recertifying the Puyallup River levees, but this may take years. Meanwhile, you should think about preparing to protect yourself and your property for a potential flood.

The current 100-year Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floodplain impacts about 10% of Fife’s community. This is based on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) prepared and adopted by FEMA going back to the 1980s.

FEMA determines the areas with a 1% potential of flooding from storms throughout the year. These areas are called the 100-year floodplain. FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps detail the 100-year floodplain areas.

Since many FIRM’s across the country are old, FEMA has been engaged in a nationwide Map Modernization process in updating the floodplain maps in Pierce County. However, FEMA has yet to adopt new maps.

Pierce County is working toward recertifying the Puyallup River levees, but this may take years. Meanwhile, you should think about preparing to protect yourself and your property for a potential flood.

The City of Fife has taken steps to be a part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which means the City of Fife agreed to manage flood hazard areas by actively adopting minimum regulatory standards as set forth by FEMA. As part of the City’s participation in the NFIP, individuals are eligible to obtain flood insurance.